Applying for a job can be overwhelming at times – especially if you’re facing redundancy, feeling pressed for time or you haven’t been in the job market for a while. In this blog, we’d like to share with you three quick tips to help you check your application and make sure that you’re successful in your job search.

1. Spelling & Grammar: check, check, and check

Spelling and grammar are so important. Double-check your application, CV, and cover letter for errors can help you make the best first impression possible. Take your time and read carefully through what you’ve written. One way to do this set it aside and then come back to it with fresh eyes – you could even try reading it out aloud.

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Of course, you can’t rely on spell check to be completely accurate, and everyone struggles to proofread their work. It’s a good idea to have someone else read through it before you send it off – often another set of eyes will pick up things you’ve missed.

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Alternatively, software like Grammarly can make light work of checking your documents.

2. Attachments: What’s in a name..?

Please find attached my CV.

Essentially there’s nothing wrong with that sentence if, in fact, your CV is attached.

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As recruiters, our teams receive a lot of applications every week so we can tell you that CVs aren’t always attached. Save yourself from having to send an immediate follow-up email and take your time before pressing send.

Another thing to consider is how you have named your files. You can label your CV simply CV.doc but how professional would it look if you named it as your full name, and even the title of the job you’re applying for and the area?

For example:

Jade Blogg_CV_Order Picker_Chesterfield.doc

3. Final checks: Just before you press send

Double-check that a) you’ve included your contact information, and b) it’s up to date.

It might seem obvious but this is an easy one to assume that you’ve updated already (and you know what they say about assuming…). Make sure it’s easy for the employer or recruiter to call you back – check that your contact details are correct and easy to find.

A top tip would be to add them in a couple of different places, for example on your CV, cover letter, and maybe even within your email as a signature.

It’s really easy to rush through the process and forget to apply some small tips to help you stand out from the crowd. Before you press send take a few minutes to look back through what you have written. Have you checked your spelling and grammar? Have you named your documents? Have you attached everything required to apply? All looking great? Press send!

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We wish you the best of luck.